BySymphony's Blogger vs Stylist Challenge

With Spring comes the time for a wardrobe do over. BySymphony hosts a collection of luxe accessories and designer clothes that has the perfect pieces to update your wardrobe for the new season. With a mix of local and international talent, the mix of pieces online and in store offer a carefully picked selection which will allow you to be on trend yet unique and faithful to your own style and taste.

Below are the mood boards I came up with for 'Summer Style'... with too many great pieces to choose from, I put 4 looks together:

 my favourtie go to ensemble, jeans (rolled up) with a great sweater and heels... and of course accessories!

sweater:  JBrand - BySymphony

jeans:  Each X Other - BySymphony

bracelet:  Razan Alazzouni - BySymphony

shoes:  Jimmy Choo

shoulder bag:  Diane Von Furstenberg

summer goddess

dress:  Issa - BySymphony

necklace:  Fallon - BySymphony

shoes:  Gianvito Rossi

who can say no to sea shells in summer? - and those earrings! - perfect lunch or dinner outfit

sweater:  Wildfox - BySymphony

pants:  tibi - BySymphony

earrings:  Razan Alazzouni - BySymphony

shoes:  Jimmy Choo

clutch:  Lee Savage - BySymphony

I'm loving the skirt and heels combo recently and this ensemble

can be a casual affair or dressed up, up to you

skirt:  Temperly London - BySymphony

tshirt blouse: tibi - BySymphony

heels: Pierre Hardy - BySymphony

cuff:  Pamela Love - BySymphony

bracelet: Razan Alazzouni - BySymphony

all images sourced form bysymphony.com or net-a-porter.com

The Joy of a Tiffany Gift

Tiffany’s legendary jewelry and accessories are created with over 175 years of excellence and a brilliance that endures in the heart. Each creation is wrapped in the Tiffany Blue Box^® that makes hearts beat faster the world over. (Agreed!)

At holiday time or any meaningful occasion, its presentation signals a magical moment that will linger in memory for a lifetime.

Tiffany & Co. is synonymous with the romance and excitement of the holiday season and as such is the ultimate destination for shoppers to experience the wonder of a Quintessential Tiffany Holiday.   

The Tiffany holiday windows are an annual tradition across the globe that excites passersby as they embark on their journey for the perfect holiday gifts, and this year our Tiffany Boutiques in Dubai and Abu Dhabi will follow through and take part in this tradition and unveil the long awaited Tiffany holiday windows.



LVP loves # 3




Tiffany presents a new Atlas® collection with all the power and magnetism that made this celebrated design a fashion icon. The clean-cut Roman numerals assert their timeless beauty in bangles of 18 karat yellow, white or rose gold, bordered with sparkling diamonds.

The Ziegfeld Collection reflects the chic sophistication of the Jazz Age with jewelry inspired by designs in the Tiffany Archives. Lengths of luxurious pearls were a signature of 1920s fashion. Tiffany perfectly emulates it with tassel earrings of freshwater cultured pearls and sterling silver.

The Ziegfeld Collection also includes jewelry that reflects the bold contrast of Art Deco. An elegant ring of sterling silver with a cushion-cut black spinel and bezel-set diamonds shimmers with the exuberance of 1920s fashion.

A pendant of Montana sapphires and diamonds in platinum highlights a legacy of colored gemstones that played a major role in Tiffany’s rise as a world-premiere jeweler. Now as then, Tiffany jewelry with these captivating stones richly reflects the timeless blue of wildflowers and the vast horizon.

The exquisite quality of Tiffany’s gemstones is beautifully highlighted in emeralds of rich, saturated color. In ring settings of diamonds, platinum and 18k gold, these captivating stones are the ultimate symbols of style.

Dazzling drop earrings from the Tiffany Legacy^® collection highlight every facet of the jeweler’s celebrated diamonds. The collection is inspired by jewels in the Tiffany & Co. Archives. Luxurious in length, the platinum-set earrings echo the sensuous motion of sleek silhouettes and complements contemporary style with spirit and vitality.

Tiffany’s Roadster cuff links are handcrafted in gleaming sterling silver. The detailed design reflects the jeweler’s rich heritage in silver accessories for men.

TIFFANY, TIFFANY & CO., T&CO., the TIFFANY BLUE BOX, ATLAS, TIFFANY LEGACY are trademarks of Tiffany and Company and its affiliates.content provided by Tiffany & Co UAE

3 Things to Try This Weekend

Try a different bloom

This weekend adorn your coffee table, or favourite vase/container at home with a different set of blooms than the usual. I always tend to lean towards white or light ping roses or hydrangeas, but this weekend, go for a bloom you would not usually, maybe even in a different colour, and try that out!

Try a bold lip colour

Never ventured out to the bright pinks, and deep reds? Well this weekend is the time you do. Try a bright colour. Don't want to make the plunge? Go for a matte version, or the lip butters or lip stains in bolder colours. Just make sure of two things, one: make sure your teeth are nice and white - because if they are not, it will be highlighted, and two: make sure the tone is right for your skin tone (I got an orangey red, whereas I should've gotten a blue toned red for my fair skin tone - the difference was major) So do a quick Google search for the colour you're interested in, or test out the product if you can!

Try a new health class

Try a workout you haven't yet, or have been meaning too, but never got around to. Ususally do yoga? try pilates. Used to the treadmill? try a martial arts cardio class (I did that switch two weeks ago...def worked up muscles I forgot I even had!) It's a great way to use up different muscles in the body and variety to your workout schedule, and the chance to experiment with different workouts!

Sonia Rykiel's Pre Fall Collection 2013

With NYFW week around the corner and fashion weeks already on their way elsewhere around the world, all eyes are turning to next season's, i.e. SS13, collections and trends. But considering the season we are actually entering, FW13, I want to bring your attention to Sonia Rykiel's 'Sonia by Sonia Rykiel's' Pre-Fall 2013 Collection.

In this collection, the fundamentals of the Rykiel wardrobe are present, but reworked and brought forward so they fit better in their time. Sporty references stand alongside evening, the pieces often thrown on in one movement, they are easy, right, and mix with however one’s mood takes them with a subtle dose of masculine versus feminine.

This sporty chic distills throughout the collection a desire for comfort and ease of movement. The indispensable sweatpants, a signature of the house, are offered here in jersey, cotton and satin or even in all over silver lurex.

Sensual, sexy even, the Sonia By woman dares to wear leopard printed bloomers with babe pink dots with a short sleeved black silk crepe tee-shirt with structured cutouts.

A sweatshirt becomes a dress in fine wool and jersey, worn both day and night, like the sweater with the large viva red “bonsoir”.

Tee-shirts are omnipresent, used in colour blocks or inspired by the graphics of the “Blue Note” jazz label’s album sleeves.

Mini and maxi volumes are contrasted. A perfecto or a trench in light nylon, deliberately appears too big. The masculine-feminine balance is also translated by the pairing of an oversize hooded parka in khaki coloured nylon with a co-ordinating lurex dress.

Black and white stripes, the veritable backbone of the collection, decorate a pleated tank-top with large stripes, which is then mixed with a leopard print to create a real trompe-l’œil effect.

The star of any Rykiel collection, knitwear is plain, striped, and even accessorised with multicoloured butterflies, in a shirt front or a brooch, for a jewel effect.

The polka dot print is soft, like lights on a foggy evening, it dresses up a shirt dress in black and red cotton voile and silk. For evening, as the ultimate nod to Warhol style pop-art, sequins shine on a jumpsuit or a mini-dress with crossing straps on the back.

I for one love the collection, you?

Images courtesy of Sonia Rykiel via Havas PR Middle East

Healthy Hair: Home Remedy Tips From Celebrity Stylist Asgar Boo

If you've been following the blog/me long enough you probably know I'm one to always try out home, or natural, remedies. I believe whatever's been given to us on this planet is for our own benefit, and honestly they always have the best results. All the chemicals and unnatural sources in what we use today creates nothing but more problems and issues for us. That's why I always love when I find out new natural remedies/recipes to try when it comes to health and beauty!

I was delighted when I received this email packed with great info from celebrity stylist Asgar Boo, the man behind the hairstyles of celebrities such as Cindy Crawford, Eva Longoria, Aishwarya Rai, and covered by publications from Vogue, to GQ, and The Daily Mail. The simple and easy tips featured below are sure to help you maintain healthy strong hair!

1.     Olive Oil

Try applying a small amount of olive oil to the lengths and ends of the hair to provide moisture to hair which is regularly exposed to the heat and sun.  Avoid the scalp as humidity causes the scalp to get naturally oily anyway.  Do this weekly too if you have dryer, coarser hair.

2.     Honey

Honey is a kitchen cupboard staple and a natural ingredient which is often found in shop bought hair-care solutions.  The natural moisturizing properties of honey draw in the moisture and will instantly seal into the dry hair that the sun and heat causes.  Try soothing small amounts of honey to the ends of your hair and leave it for an hour or so before rinsing it off thoroughly.  Not only will it provide a pleasant fragrance but it will improve the moisture and shine.

3.     Egg

Although it sounds odd, washing your hair with egg yolks one or twice a week can provide a pure source of protein and fat to frazzled summer hair.  The protein and fat can effectively minimize the effect that the sun, Sea, Chlorine and humidity have on causing limp, dry locks.  Make sure your hair is damp when you do this and carefully rub one egg yolk into the scalp.  Leave this for approximately 20 minutes and then rinse it out thoroughly for that extra strong hair boost. 

4.     Eat Right

It may seem like the most simple of home remedies but it really can be the most effective.  What one eats is a huge factor in the state of one’s hair condition.  During the summer months where you have adverse weather conditions against you, make sure to load up on protein filled foods such as fish, nuts, spinach and Greek-yogurt containing all the right nutrients to keep your hair looking thick and healthy.  Not only will your hair reap the rewards, but your waistline might also.

Content provided by Asgar Boo via Sterling Communications

Pictures via npr.org, pinterest.com

Dalia Dogmoch's Cookbook: "Food, Love, and Life"

Last week saw the release of the much awaited cook book: "Food Love and Life" by Dalia Dogmoch, infamously known for her very own Kitsch Cupcakes and the widely read food blog: D's Kitchen.

The perfect blend of east meets west recipes, the recipe book is definitely one to keep on the kitchen shelf.

The opening and book signing, held at Bloomingdales Home at the Dubai Mall allowed fans and guests to enjoy a live cooking demonstration by Dalia herself followed by the chance to get the first few copies of the book signed by Dalia herself, in addition to enjoying bite sized foods, drinks, and taking lots of photos. I unfortunately just made it to the last half an hour of the even as I had just landed in Dubai a couple hours prior to the event. Nonetheless I made it! I had to! How could I not?

All excited, once I got home, I spent at least half an hour easily going through the book, getting even more excited thinking about trying the recipes. Although I haven't gotten down to that just yet I know I will be very soon. More so when I'm back in NYC in my own kitchen.

The book is perfectly composed with Dalia's scrumptious recipes, and Sukaina (of Sips and Spoonfuls) amazing food photography. Dalia's love for food and family are evident throughout the book.

The book contains not only great recipes and photography, but also everything a good cookbook should have. It's conveniently got measurement conversions, tips on ingredients, fruits and vegetables, and goes beyond by lending you great entertaining tips.

Now I can't reveal everything. These are just sneak peaks. Get your hands on the book to get a hold of all this useful info!! Trust me it's a good idea

The book contains a great variety of ... basically everything. Breakfast to snacks, to lunches and dinners, to dressings, sauces, desserts, and more!

Can't wait to try these recipes (as if I haven't said that enough times). And I will definitely be posting what I make..hopefully if I don't burn anything ;)

Head over to MastermindPR's facebook page and/or website to see the video from the book signing and launch event

Photos by me, please credit if used.

5 Office Spaces I'm Loving Right Now

Office spaces can often be dull and boring. Not motivating for sure. Some of them can even put you right back to sleep with their dreary set ups on that Sunday/Monday (depending where you live) morning when all you're doing is trying to stay awake - post-weekend!

That's why when I spot a couple of great office interiors, I appreciate them wholly and when I found these five, I couldn't help but share them with you. I hope they're inspiring to you, and in general just a joy to look at!

1. The Office of Corinne Grassini, Founder + Designer of Society For Rational Dress

I love this interior because it's hosts a great balance of comfort and a work-like-environment. The last thing you want is an office so comfy all you want to do is lounge around I love how this space is modern, yet it has rustic elements such as the exposed brick wall and idustrial looking but still cozy dest. The warm colours, the dimmed lighting make for a cozy interior, while the simplicity and space allows room for work and space for inspiration.

(image via)

2. This interior, photographed by David Prince, again hosts a great balance of cozy and a work friendly environment. The high ceiling and the draped curtains make for a cozy feel. The frames, decor, and shelves create a pleasing set up while the desk and chair appropriately lend themselves as a great place to sit and work. And can we talk about the monochromatic theme? Black + White + Gold. I love! Done ever so perfectly.

(image via)

3. The Office/Studio of Dallas Shaw of Dallas Shaw

Dallas' artistic eye and love for soft water colours can be seen in her studio's interiors. With a chic and crisp feel, this office's minimalism makes for a great studio perfect for inspiration, work, and comfort. The plain white furniture is balanced by, and accentuates, the pastel and metallic decor elements featured around the studio. Her soft rug adds a touch of extra coziness and comfort.

(image via)

4. Nina's Office, Stylizimo.com

This office unexpectedly takes the risk of using black as a wall colour. It creates a great backdrop for any sort of inspiration you might want to hang up there. Balanced right with white furniture and monochromatic accents. I love the copper hangers, which not only balance out the colour palette, but is a greate and unique way of hanging magazines that double up as wall art too!

(image via)

5. This pied-a-terre in Toulouse, France is a great example of a home office space. The use of carpet and material create coziness, while the minimalistic and contemporary style create balance and, again, make for a great work friendly set up. (My eye is on that green book. I love monochromatic with a pop of green!) the decor, arm chair, and accents all together create the perfect balance of rustic, modern, vintage, and stylish

(image via)

Alberto Moretti 24-Carat Gold Shoes

Just when you thought Dubai couldn't surprise you anymore, after a Lamborghini police car, the tallest tower in the world, the most expensive phone, etc. etc. This week Dubai saw the release of...

A 24 CARAT GOLD SHOE

Level Shoe District announces the Middle East exclusivity of the highly anticipated Alberto Moretti 24-carat gold velvet shoes.

The high-heeled pump for women and a loafer for men, both made of velvet covered in 24-carat gold, will be exclusively distributed in only the top five department stores in the World.

The unique shoes were presented for the first time during the Monte Carlo Grand Prix and Alberto Moretti’s autumn/winter 2013 collection which introduced his focus on the precious metal this year.  Made in collaboration with HORO, the brand said the style has been kept simple as the gold speaks for itself as a luxury product.

text and image provided by Level Shoe District